Parallel Prism Optical System for Multi-Point Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional measuring apparatuses face challenges in achieving high precision measurements of distances and alignment between multiple points on electronic components using a single optical system, often requiring multiple image sensors or complex configurations, which increase costs and complicate the system.
Innovation Solution
The use of parallel and trapezoidal prisms to refract light rays from multiple locations onto a single screen, allowing for accurate measurement of distances and alignment using a single optical system, with the prisms positioned to converge or diverge light rays in a manner that allows simultaneous imaging of multiple points on both surfaces of an object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnification of the image is set to be high to improve measurement precision, then measurement precision is improved, but the entire measuring point cannot be fitted into the screen view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the screen view into multiple regions by introducing virtual reference points (first and second reference points) that split the measurement area. This allows the display to show multiple measurement points simultaneously by segmenting the visual field, enabling both high magnification and complete view of multiple points.
2Productivity
If multiple image sensors are employed to measure multiple points simultaneously, then measurement capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of reference points and measurement points through image processing. By generating virtual reference points and using software-based measurement overlays, the system simulates multiple measurement capabilities without requiring multiple physical image sensors, thus reducing hardware complexity while maintaining measurement productivity.
3Device complexity
If a single optical system is used to measure multiple points, then system complexity is reduced, but measurement precision across multiple points deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces virtual reference points as intermediaries between the single optical system and multiple measurement points. These virtual reference points serve as mediation elements that allow the single optical system to establish precise measurement baselines across multiple locations through computational geometry, maintaining measurement precision while using simplified hardware.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise measurement of distances and alignment between multiple points on electronic components with a single optical system, reducing system size and cost while enhancing measurement accuracy and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The use of parallel and trapezoidal prisms to refract light rays from multiple locations onto a single screen
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring apparatus and a measuring method are provided, with which an accurate length measurement and position checking are achieved using a simple structure. The measuring apparatus according to the present invention is provided with a first and a second parallel prisms which capture light rays respectively reflected from a first and a second locations on one surface of an object to be measured, an optical lens which converges or diverges the light rays from the first and the second parallel prisms, an image sensor which captures the light rays from the optical lens, and converts images of the first and the second locations into an electrical signal, and a display unit which displays on one screen the images of the first and the second locations based on the electrical signal. According to the present invention, using just one optical system, measurement can be performed on one screen, as to multiple locations being spaced apart. Furthermore, an optical path can be refracted by 90 degrees with respect to the height direction just above the object to be measured, by means of the parallel prism. Therefore, size and height (work distance) of the optical system can be reduced, thereby downsizing the measuring apparatus.